We know a lot about the universe but what makes astronomy a continuously fascinating subject is what we don’t know. This includes 96% of the energy of the universe which is in the form of either dark matter or dark energy. Apart from these major considerations there are many other aspects of the universe we don’t understand including : Where do the highest energy cosmic rays come from? Is there life elsewhere in the universe? What are neutron stars made of?

This talk will address these issues but will concentrate upon the dark universe and the current and future attempts to understand both dark matter and dark energy. In the next decade a number of both terrestrial and space borne instruments will try and solve this question.

Doors open about 7.15pm. There is free parking available on the campus in the evenings. Admission Free, including light refreshments. We are located in the Bell Theatre, Department of Mathematics and Physics, QUB - details here......

With thanks to the Astrophysics Research Centre, QUB, for assistance with this event.

Established in 1974, the Irish Astronomical Association is Northern Ireland's Premier organisation for Amateur Astronomers